Writing on a prayer: Westminster Place resident becomes published author at 85

85-year-old Lee Rose never expected to be a published author. She never even considered herself a writer.

But today the Buckner Westminster Place resident is the proud author of “Time Alone with God,” a collection of prayers and conversations with God. The book candidly addresses struggles many senior adults face related to downsizing, loss and life transition.

“I didn’t sit down to write anything more than just my conversations with the Lord every day,” Rose said.

Rose wrote every day, one day at a time, over six months before the book was finished. The process, Rose said, deepened her walk with God in ways she never expected.

“Now I can hear the birds sing and know it’s something to give thanks for,” Rose said. “I don’t get down like I was before. My husband, brother and sister-in-law had all passed away in a matter of months. At the time I felt like it was the end of the world, but I don’t feel that way anymore.”

When Rose began writing the book, she had no intention of publishing it. She simply sat down every morning and wrote what came to mind, whether conversations with God or memories she didn’t want to forget. She wrote by hand, then went to the computer and typed it.

“I just set aside a time to be with the Lord, then wrote down what he taught me,” Rose said. “I did it for my family, but then I thought maybe there are others that have some of those same anxieties and fears. The response has been incredible.”

Well aware of the challenges that come with aging, Rose hopes that the book reminds people of who God is every day, in every season.

“I hope my book shows people that God continues to love us despite all our mistakes,” Rose said. “He sent his son to draw us to him, and he just continues to draw us to him if we just listen.”

Writing isn’t the only thing that keeps Rose busy. She volunteers twice a week at Heartisans Marketplace in Longview and regularly participates in Buckner Westminster Place activities.

“We’re blessed to have residents like Lee Rose here at Buckner,” said David Sims, executive director of Buckner Westminster Place. “Her genuine heart is so evident, and it’s inspiring to see the ways she continues to use her life to glorify God.”